 CHAPTER 18 Guests of the Brigand Good morning Count, said Uncle John cheerfully. The others stared at him astonished. Good heavens, have they got you too? he exclaimed. Why, I'm visiting his Excellency, Ilduka, if that's what you mean? replied Mr. Merrick. But whether he's got me or I've got him, I haven't yet decided. The young man's jaw was tied in a bandage, and one of his eyes was black and discoloured. He looked agitated and miserable. Sir, you're in grave danger. We are both in grave danger, he announced, unless we choose to submit to being robbed by this rascally brigand. Then, observed Uncle John, let's submit. Never, not in a thousand years, cried Feralty wildly. And then this singular young man sank into a chair and burst into tears. Uncle John was puzzled. The slender youth, for he was but a youth in spite of his thin moustaches, exhibited a queer combination of courage and weakness. But somehow Uncle John liked him better at that moment than he ever had before. Perhaps because he now realised he had unjustly suspected him. You seem to have been hurt, Count, he remarked. Why, I was foolish enough to struggle, and that brute Tomasso pounded me, was the reply. You were wise to offer no resistance, sir. As for that, I hadn't a choice, said Uncle John, smiling. When did they get you, Feralty? Last evening I walked in the garden of the hotel, and they threw a sack over my head. I resisted and tried to cry out. They beat me until I was insensible, and then brought me here, together with my travelling cases, which they removed from my room to convey the impression that I had gone away voluntarily. When I awakened from my swoon I was in this room, with a doctor bending over me. The doctor? Oh, they have a doctor in this accursed den. As well as a priest and a lawyer, the Duke entreated my pardon. He will punish his men for abusing me. But he holds me a safe prisoner, just the same. Why? He wants a ransom. He will force me to purchase an ancient brass candlestick for fifty thousand lira. Uncle John looked at his companion thoughtfully. Tell me, Count Feralty, he said, who you really are. I had believed you were ill Duke's accomplice until now, but if he had trapped you in demands of ransom, it is because you are a person of some consequence and able to pay. May I not know as much about your position in life as does this brigand Duke? The young man hesitated. Then he spread out his hands with an appealing gesture and said, Not yet, Mr. Merrick, do not press me now, I implore you. Perhaps I have done wrong to try to deceive you, but in good time I will explain everything, then you will understand me better. You are no Count. That is true, Mr. Merrick. You are not even an Italian. That is but partly true, sir. You have seen fit to deceive us by? Tomasso threw wide the door. Il disunit e servitor. He said gruffly. What does that mean, asked Uncle John. Luncheon is ready. Shall we go down? Yes, I am hungry. They followed the man to the lower floor, where he ushered them into a low, cool room where a long table was set. The walls were whitewashed and bore some religious prints, gaudily coloured. A white cloth covered the table, which was well furnished with modern crockery and glass and antique silverware. At the head of the table were two throne-like chairs, one slightly larger and more elevated than the other. In the more important seat was a withered old woman with a face like that of a mummy, except that it was supplied with two small, piercing jet eyes that seemed very much alive as they turned truly upon strangers. She was the only one of the company they found seated. The duke stood behind the smaller chair beside her and motioned the Americans to occupy two places at the side of the table next to him. Opposite them, in the places adjoining the elevated dais, were two remarkable individuals whom Uncle John saw for the first time. One was a Capuchin monk, with shave and crown and coarse cassock fastened at the waist by a cord. He was blind in one eye and the lid of the other drooped so as to expose only a thin slit. Fat, awkward and unkempt, he stood, holding to the back of his chair and swaying slightly from side to side. Next to him was a dandified appearing man, who was very slight and thinner form, but affected the dress and manners of extreme youth. Feralty whispered to Uncle John that this was the doctor. The table dropped a step in height from these places and the balance of its length was occupied by several Starwatch Sicilians, clothed in ordinary peasant costume, and a few silent, heavy-featured women. Tato was not present. Signori, said the duke to the Americans, allow me to present you to my mother, the head of our illustrious family, one who is known, admired and feared throughout Sicily, as her Excellency Laducea d'Alcanta. With the words the duke bowed low to the old woman, Uncle John and Feralty also bowed low. The lines of servitors humbly bent themselves double. But the Ducea made no acknowledgment. Her bead-like eyes searched the faces of the guests, with disconcerting boldness, and then dropped to her plate. At this signal the fat priest mumbled a blessing upon the food, the duke waved his hand, and all the company became seated. Uncle John felt as if he were taking part in a comic opera and enjoyed the scene immensely, but now his attention was distracted by the stewards bringing in steaming platters of macaroni and stewed mutton, from which they first served the Ducea, and then the duke and afterward the guests. The servants waited, hungry-eyed, until these formalities were completed, and then swept the platters clean and ate ravenously. Uncle John plied his knife and fork busily, and found the food excellently prepared. Feralty seemed to have little appetite. Some of his teeth had been knocked out, and his broken wrist, which had been, but partially healed, had been wrenched in the scrimmage of the night before, so that it caused him considerable pain. The duke attempted little conversation, doubtless through deference to the aged Ducea, who remained absolutely silent and unresponsive to her surroundings. He praised his wine, however, which he said was from their own vineyards, and pressed the Americans to drink freely. When she had finished her meal, the Ducea raised a hand, and at the signal the whole company arose and stood at their places, while two of the women assisted her to retire. She leaned upon their shoulders, being taller than her son, but displayed surprising vigor for one so advanced in years. When she had gone, the others finished at their leisure, and the conversation became general, the servants babbling in their voluble Italian without any restraint whatsoever. Then the duke led his prisoners to the veranda and offered them cigars. These were bought by Tato, who then sat in the duke's lap, and curled up affectionately in his embrace, while the brigand's expression softened, and he straightened the boy's head with a tendo motion. Uncle John watched this little scene approvingly. It was the first time he had seen Tato, since the child had lured him through the tunnel. Your son, Duke, he asked. Yes, senor, my only child, the heir to my modest estate. And a very good brigand already for his years, added Mr. Merrick. Ah, Tato, Tato! Shaking his head at the child. How could you be so cruel as to fool an innocent old chap like me? Tato laughed. I did not deceive you, senor, you but misunderstood me. I said senor, for alty was hurt, and so he was. But you said he needed my assistance. Does he not, senor? How do you speak such good English? Father Antoine taught me. The monk? Yes, senor. My child is a linguist, remarked the duke complacently. He has been taught English, German and French, even from the days of infancy. It is very good for me, for now Tato can entertain my guests. Have you no Italian guests, then? asked Uncle John. No, since Italy owns Sicily, and I am a loyal subject. Neither have I many Germans or Frenchmen, although a few wander my way now and then. But the Americans I love, and often they visit me. There were three last year, and now here are two more to honour me with their presence. The Americans make easier victims I suppose. Oh, the Americans are very rich, and they purchase my wares liberally. By the way, senor, for alty, turning to the young man. Have you decided yet the little matter of your own purchase? I will not buy your candlestick, if that is what you refer to, was the response. No, by no means. 50,000 lira for a miserable bit of brass. But I forgot to tell you, senor, the candlestick is no longer for sale. Observe the duke with an evil smile. Instead I offer you a magnificent bracelet, which is 100 years old. Thank you, what's the price? 100,000 lira, senor. For alty started, then in turn he smiled at his captor. That is absurd, said he. I have no wealth at all, sir, but live on a small allowance that barely supplies my needs. I cannot pay. I will take that risk, senor, said the brigand coolly. You have but to draw me an order on Mr Edward Layton of New York for 100,000 lira, or say 20,000 dollars, and the bracelet is yours. Edward Layton, my father's attorney, how did you know of him, sir? I have an agent in New York, answered the duke, and lately I have been in your city myself. Then if you know so much you scoundrel-y thief, you know that my father will not honour a draught for such a sum as you would demand. I doubt if my father would pay a single dollar to save me from assassination. We will not discuss that, senor, for I regret to say that your father is no longer able to honour draughts, however your attorney can do so and will without question. For alty stared at him blankly. What do you mean by that? he demanded. The duke shook the ashes from a cigar and examined the glowing end with interest. Your father, was the deliberate reply, was killed in a railway accident four days ago. I have just been notified of the fact by a cable from America. For alty sat trembling and regarding the man with silent horror. Is this true, sir? asked Uncle John quickly, or is it only a part of your cursed game? It is quite true, senor, I regret being obliged to break the ill news so abruptly, but this gentleman thought himself too poor to purchase my little bracelet and it was necessary to inform him that he is suddenly made wealthy. Not yet so great a creases as yourself, senor Merrick, but still a very rich man. For alty ceased trembling, but the horror still clung to his eyes. A railway wreck, he muttered hoarsely. Where was it, sir? tell me, I beseech you, and are you sure my father is dead? Very sure, senor, my informant is absolutely reliable, but the details of the wreck I do not know. I am only informed of the fact of your father's death and that his will leaves you his entire fortune. For alty arose and staggered away to his room, and Uncle John watched him go pittingly, but knew no way to comfort him. When he had gone, he asked gently. His father was an American Duke? Yes, senor, and wealthy, you say? Exceedingly wealthy, senor. What was his name? Ah, about that ring, my dear guest, do you think 150,000 lira too much for it? You said 100,000. That was this morning, senor, the ring has increased in value since. Tomorrow, without doubt, it will be worth 200,000. Tato laughed at the rueful expression on the victim's face, and a moment after Uncle John joined in his laughter. Very good, Duke, he said. I don't wish to rob you, let us wait until tomorrow. The brigands seemed puzzled. May I ask why, senor Merrick, since you are warned? he inquired. Why is this way, Duke? I am just a simple commonplace American and have lived a rather stupid existence for some time. We have no brigands at home, nor any hidden valleys or protected criminals like yourself. The romance of my surroundings interests me. Your methods are unique and worth studying. If I am so rich as you think me, a few extra 100,000 lira will be a cheap price to pay for this experience. Is it not so? The Duke frowned. Do you play with me? he asked menacingly. By no means, I am just the spectator. I expect you to make the entertainment. I am sure it will be a good show, although the price is rather high. Il duke glared, but made no reply at the moment. Instead he sat stroking Tato's hair and glowering evilly at the American. The child whispered something in Italian and the man nodded. Very well, senore, he said more quietly. Tomorrow, then. If it so pleases you. Then, taking Tato's hand, he slowly arose and left the veranda. For a moment the American looked after them with a puzzled expression. Then he said to himself with a smile, Ah, I have solved one mystery at any rate. Tato is a girl. And now Uncle John, finding himself left alone, took his walking stick and started out to explore the valley. He felt very sorry for young Feralty, but believed his sympathy could in no way lighten the blow caused by the abrupt newness of his life. He felt very sorry for young Feralty, but believed his sympathy could in no way lighten the blow caused by the abrupt newness of his life. He would wish to be alone with his grief for a time. By and by Mr. Merrick intended to question his fellow prisoner and try to find out something of his history. The dale was very beautiful as it lay basking in the afternoon sun. Near the house was a large vegetable garden, which, being now shaded by the overhanging cliffs, was being tended by a sour visaged Sicilian. Uncle John watched him for a time, but the fellow paid no heed to him. Every servant connected with the duke's establishment seemed surly and morose. And this was the more remarkable, because the country folk and villagers Uncle John had met were usually merry and lighthearted. Down by the brook were green meadows and groves of fruit trees. The little gentleman followed the stream for some distance. And finally came upon a man seated on the bank above a broad pool, intently engaged in fishing. It proved to be the dandified old doctor, who wore gloves to protect his hands, and a broad rimmed straw hat to shade his face. Uncle John stood beside the motionless figure for a moment, watching the line. Then, forgetting he was in a foreign country, he asked carelessly, Any luck? Not yet, was the quiet reply, in clear English. It is too early to interest the fishes, and hour later they will bite. Then why did you come so soon? To escape that hellhole yonder, nodding his head toward the house. Uncle John was surprised. But you are not a prisoner, doctor, he ventured to say. Except through the necessity of earning a living. Yilduca pays well, or rather the duquesa does, for she is the head of this household. I am skillful, and worth my price, and they know it. You say the duquesa is the head of the house? Assuredly, señor, Yilduca is her slave. She plans and directs everything, and her son but obeys her will. Did she send him to America? I think so, but do not worry. The duke is clever on his own account, and almost as wicked as his old mother. And between them they are training the child to be as bad as they are. It is dreadful. Have you been here long? For seven years, señor. But can you resign whenever you please? Why not, but the doubt makes me uneasy sometimes. In another year I would like to go to Venus, and retire from professional life. I am a Venetian you observe, no dastardly brigand of a Sicilian, and in another year I shall have sufficient means to retire, and end my days in peace. Here I save every centesimo I make, for I can spend nothing. Uncle John sat down upon the bank beside the confiding Venetian. Doctor, said he, I am somewhat puzzled by this man you call Yilduca, as well as by my aditious capture, and by my indecisiveness. I'd like your advice, what shall I do? The only possible thing, señor, submit. Why is it the only possible thing? Have you not yet discovered? Unless you pay, your friends will never hear from you again. Yilduca, by his mother's favour, is king here. He will murder you if you oppose his demands. Really? It is quite certain, señor. He has murdered several oppressive men, It is quite certain, señor. He has murdered several obstinate people since I have been here, and the outside world will never know their fate. It is folly to oppose the king. Were you not rich, you would not be here. Yilduca knows the exact wealth of every American who travels abroad, and is likely to visit Sicily. Many escape him, but a few wander into his toils, for he is wonderfully sagacious. Mark you, he does not demand your all. He merely takes tribute, leaving his victims sufficient to render life desirable to them. If he required their all, many would as soon forfeit life as make the payment. But a tithe they will spare for the privilege of living. That is why he is so successful, and that is why he remains undisturbed. For an American, being robbed so simply, never tells of his humiliating experience, he goes home and avoids Sicily ever after. Hmm, I understand. But if you do not pay, you are not permitted to leave this place. You are killed at once, and the incident is over. Yilduca does not love to murder, but he takes no chances. I see, but suppose I pay, and then make complaint to the Italian government. It has been done, senor, but the government is very blind. It does not know Yilduca do alcanta. Its officials are convinced he does not exist. They investigate it carefully, and declare the tale is all a myth. Then there is no way of escape. Absolutely none. Such a condition is almost inconceivable, is it not, and in this enlightened age? But it exists, and it is only harmful when its victims are stubborn and rebellious. To be cheerful and pay promptly is the only sensible way out of your difficulty. Thank you, said Uncle John, I shall probably pay promptly. But tell me, to satisfy my curiosity, how does your Duke murder his victims? He does not call out murder, as I do. He says they are suicides, or the victims of accident. They walk along a path and fall into a pit. It is deep, and they are killed. The pit is also their tomb. They are forgotten, and the trap is already set for their successors. Rather a gloomy picture, doctor. Yes, I tell you this because my nature is kind. I abhor all crime, and much prefer that you should live. But if you die, my solario continues. I am employed to guard the health of the Duke's family, especially the old Dukesa, and have no part in this detestable business. Isn't that a bite? No, senior, it is the current. It is not time for the fish to bite. Uncle John arose. Good afternoon, doctor. Good afternoon, senior. He left the old fellow sitting there and walked on. The valley was about a half-mile long, and from a quarter to a third of a mile in width. It resembled a huge amphitheater in shape. The American tramped the length of the brook, which disappeared into the rocky wall at the far end. Then he returned through the orchards to the house. The place was silent and seemed deserted. There was a langer in the atmosphere that invited sleep. Uncle John sought his room and lay down for an afternoon nap, soon falling into a sound slumber. When he awoke, he found Feralty sitting beside his bed. The young man was pale, but composed. Mr. Merrick said he, what have you decided to do? Uncle John rubbed his eyes and set up. I am going to purchase that ring, he answered. At the best price the duke will make me. I am disappointed, returned Feralty, stiffly. I do not intend to allow myself to be robbed in this way. Then write a farewell letter, and I'll take it to your friends. It may not be necessary, sir. Uncle John regarded him thoughtfully. What can you do? he asked. Feralty leaned forward and whispered softly. I have a stout pocket-knife with a very long blade. I shall try to kill the duke. Once he is dead his people will not dare to oppose us, but will fly in terror. It is only Ilduka's audacity and genius that enables this robber's den to exist. You would rather attempt this than pay? Sir, I could not bear the infamy of letting this scoundrel triumph over me. Well, Feralty, you are attempting a delicate and dangerous task, but so far as I can I will help you. He took the revolver from his pocket and handed it to his companion. It's loaded it in every chamber, he whispered. Perhaps it will serve your purpose better than a knife. Feralty's eyes sparkled. Good! he exclaimed, concealing the weapon. I shall watch for my opportunity, so as to make no mistake. Meantime do you bargain with the duke, but postpone any agreement to pay. All right, my lad. I'll wait to see what happens. It may add a good deal to the cost of that ring, if you fail, but I'll take the chances of that for the sake of the game. He paused a moment and then added, Is your father really dead count? Yes, the duke has sent me the cable-gram he received from his agent. I cannot doubt his authority. My father and I have not been friendly of late years. He was a severe man, cold and unsympathetic. But I am sorry we could not have been reconciled before this awful fate overtook him. However, it is now too late for vain regrets. I tried not to disobey or antagonize my one parent, but he did not understand my nature, and perhaps I failed to understand his. He sighed, and rising from his chair, walked to the window to conceal his emotion. Uncle John remained silent, and presently, Tommaso entered to notify them that dinner would be served in a half hour, and the duke expected them to join him at the table. The next morning Mr. Merrick bargained pleasantly with his jailer, who seemed now averse to discussing the matter at length, but no conclusion was reached. Feralty took no part in the conversation, but remained sullen and silent, and the duke did not press him. The day after, however, he insisted that he had dallyed long enough. Although, after much argument on the part of his enforced guests, he agreed to give them three days to decide, with the understanding that each day they delayed would add a goodly sum to their ransom. If at the end of the three days the Americans remained obdurate, he would invite them to take a little walk, and the affair would be terminated. Feralty hugged his revolver, and awaited his opportunity. It seemed to Uncle John that he might have had a hundred chances to shoot the brigand, who merited no better fate than assassination at their hands. But although Feralty was resolved upon the deed, he constantly hesitated to accomplish it in cold blood, and the fact that he had three days' grace induced him to put off the matter as long as possible. He came to regret most bitterly his indecision, for something in the young man's eyes must have put the brigand on his guard. When they awoke on the third morning, which was the fifth since their imprisonment, someone had searched the rooms thoroughly. The revolver and the knife were both gone, and the voss rendered them absolutely helpless. End of CHAPTER 19 It now seemed to Uncle John that further resistance to the demands of Yilduca was as useless as it was dangerous. He resented the necessity of paying a ransom as much as any man could, but imprisoned as he was in a veritable robbers' den, without means of communicating with the authorities or the outside world, and powerless to protect his life from the vengeance of the unprincipled scoundrel who held him, the only safe and sane mode of procedure was to give in as gracefully as possible. He formed this conclusion during a long walk around the valley, during which he once more noted the absolute seclusion of the place, and the impossibility of escape by scaling the cliffs. The doctor was fishing again by the brook, but paid no heed when Uncle John tramped by. The sight of the dapper little man gave Mr. Merrick a thought, and presently he turned back and sat down beside the fisherman. I want to get out of this, he said bluntly. It was fun at first and rather interesting, but I've had enough of it. The physician kept his eye on the line and made no reply. I want you to tell me how to escape, continued Uncle John. It's no use saying that it can't be done, for nothing is impossible to a clever man, such as I believe you to be. Still no reply. You spoke the other day of earning enough money to go home and live in peace for the rest of your days. Here, sir, is your opportunity to improve upon that ambition. The brigand is trying to exact a large ransom from me. I'll give it to you willingly, every penny, if you'll show me how to escape. Why should you do that? inquired the doctor, still intent upon his line. Does it matter to you who gets your money? Of course, was the prompt reply. In one case I pay it for a service rendered, and do it gladly. On the other hand I am robbed, and that goes against the grain. Ilduca has finally decided to demand fifty thousand dollars. It shall be yours instead, if you give me your assistance. Señor, said the other calmly, I would like this money, and I regret that it is impossible for me to earn it. But there is no means of escape from this place, except by the passage through the rocks. Which passage only three people know the secret of opening? Ilduca himself, the child's tato, and the old duquesa. Perhaps Tomaso also knows. I am not certain, but he will not admit he has such knowledge. You see, Señor, I am as much a prisoner as yourself. There ought to be some way to climb these cliffs, some secret path, or underground tunnel, remarked Uncle John musingly. It is more than a hundred years since this valley was made secure by a brigand ancestor of our duquesa, was the reply, and maybe two or three centuries ago, for all I know, and ever since it has been used for just this purpose. To hold a prisoner until he was ransomed, and no such man has ever left the place alive unless he paid the price. Then you cannot help me, asked Uncle John, who was weary of hearing these pessimistic declarations. I cannot even help myself, for I may not resign my position here unless the duke is willing I should go. Good morning, doctor. The prisoner returned slowly toward the dwelling with its group of outhouses. By chance he found a path leading to the rear of these which he had not traversed before, and followed it until he came to a hedge of thickly set trees of some variety of cactus, which seemed to have been planted to form an enclosure. Cautiously pushing aside the branches bordering a small gap in this hedge, Uncle John discovered a charming garden lying beyond, so he quickly squeezed himself through the opening and entered. The garden was rudely, but not badly, kept. There was even some attempt at ornamentation, and many of the shrubs and flowers were rare and beautiful. Narrow walks traversed the masses of foliage, and several leafy bowers invited one to escape the heat of the midday sun in their shelter. It was not a large place, and struck one as being overcrowded because so many of the plants were taller than a man's head. Uncle John turned down one path, which after several curves and turns came to an abrupt ending beneath the spreading branches of an acacia tree, which had been converted into a bower by a thick climbing vine, whose matted leaves and purple blossoms effectually screened off the garden beyond. While he stood gazing around him to find a way out without retracing his steps, a clear voice within a few feet of him caused him to start. The voice spoke in Viemman Italian, and came from the other side of the screen of vines. It was sharp and garyless in tone, and although Uncle John did not understand the words, he recognized their dominating accent. The duke replied slowly and suddenly, and whatever he said had the effect of rousing the first speaker to fierce anger. The American became curious. He found a place where the leaves were thinner than elsewhere, and carefully pressing them apart looked through the opening. Beyond was a clear space, well shaded and furnished, with comfortable settles, tables, and chairs. It adjoined a wing of the dwelling, which stood but a few paces away, and was evidently occupied by the woman of the household. The old dukessa, her face still like a death-mask, but her eyes glittering with the brightness of a serpence, sat enthroned within a large chair in the center of a family group. It was her sharp voice that had first aroused the American's attention. Opposite her sat the duke, his thin face wearing an expression of gloom and dissatisfaction. The child's tato occupied a stool at her father's feet, and in the background were three serving women, sowing or embroidering. Near the duke stood the tall brigand, Noah's Petro. Answering the old woman's fierce tirade, tato said, It is foolish to crawl an Italian. The servants are listening. Let us then speak in English, returned the dukessa. These are matters the servants should not gossip about. The duke nodded assent. Both tato and her grandmother spoke easily the foreign tongue. The duke was more uncertain in his English, but understood it perfectly. I am still the head of this family, resumed the dukessa, in a more moderate tone. I insist that my will be obeyed. Your dignity I have the respect for, replied the duke, laboredly. But you grow old and foolish. Foolish, I. Yes, you are absurd. You live in past centuries. You think today we must do all that your ancestors did. Can you do better? Yes, the world has changed. It has progress. With it I advance, but you do not. You would murder, rob, torture today, as the great duke your grandfather did. You think we still are of the world independent. You think we are powerful and great. Bah, we are nothing. We are as a speck of dust. But still we are the outlaws and the outcasts of Sicily, and some day Italy will crush us, and we will be forgotten. I dare them to molest us. Because you are imbecile. The world you do not know. I have travel. I see many countries, and I am wise. But you are still my vassal, my slave, and I alone rule here. Always have you rebelled and wanted to escape. Only my iron will has kept you here and made you do your duty. Since you, my brother, Redolfo, killed, I have little stomach for the trade of Brigande. It is true. But no longer is this trade necessary. We are rich. Had I a son to inherit your business, a different thought might prevail. But I have only Tato, and a girl cannot be a successful Brigande. Why not, cried the old Ducasa, contemptuously. It is the girl, always the girl, you make excuses for. But have not I ruled our domain, I who am a woman? Tato herself answered, in a quiet voice. And what have you become, Nana, more than an outcast, she inquired. What used to you is money, or a power that the world would sneer at. Did the world even suspect that you exist? You are a failure in my life, my Nana, and I will not be like you. The Ducasa screamed an epithet and glared at the child as if she would annihilate her. But no fitting words to reply could she find. Uncle John smiled delightedly. He felt no sense of humiliation or revolt at eavesdropping in this den of thieves. And to be able to gain so fair a revelation of the inner life of this remarkable family was a diversion not lightly to be foregone. So far we have managed to escape the law, resumed the Duke. But always it may not be our fortune to do this if we continue this life. It is now a good time to stop. Of one American we will gain a quarter of a million lira, a fortune, and of the other one hundred and fifty thousand lira. With what we already have it is enough and more. Quietly we will disband our men and go away. In another land we live the respectable life, in peace with all, and Tato shall be the fine lady and forget she was once a Brighan's daughter. The child sprang up in glee and clasping her father's neck with both arms kissed him with passionate earnestness. Silently the Ducasa watched the scene. Her face was as pallid and immobile as ever. Even the eyes seemed to have lost expression. But the next words showed that she was still unconquered. You shall take the money of the fat pig of an American. It is well to do so. But the youth who boldly calls himself Feralty shall make no tribute to this family. He shall die as I have declared. I will not take the risk," asserted the Duke, sourly. Have the others who lie in the pits told tales? She demanded. No, but they died alone. Here our two Americans are prisoners, and they have many and powerful friends, both at Taramina and at Naples. They man Merrick when he goes. We'll tell that Feralty is here. To obtain his person, alive or dead, the soldiers will come here and destroy us all. It is folly, and shows you are old and imbecile. Then go, she cried fiercely, go, you and Tato, take your money and escape, and leave me my valley and the youth Feralty and my revenge. Then if I die, if the soldiers destroy me, it is my own doing. In this new world, of which you know nothing, escape is not possible," replied the Duke, after a moment's thought. Feralty must be accounted for, and because I captured him they would accuse me of his death, and even Tato might be made to suffer. No, madame, both the Americans must be killed, or both set free for ransom. Uncle John gave a start of dismay. Here was a development he had not expected. Then, said the old woman, positively, let them both die. Oh, no, exclaimed Tato, not that grandmother. Certainly not so, agreed the Duke, we want their money. You were already rich, said the Dukessa, you have yourself said so, and I know it is truth. This new world, explained the Duke, contains of luxuries many that you have no understanding of. To be rich today requires more money than in your days, madremia. With these ransoms, which already we have won, we shall have enough. Without this money my Tato would lack much that I desire for her. So of new murders I will take no risk for the Bambina's sake. And my revenge? Bah, of what use is it? Because the boy's father married my sister Bianca, and ill-treated her? Must we kill their offspring? He is his father's son. The father you say is dead, and so also is my child Bianca. Then my hatred falls upon the son Arturo, and he must die to avenge the wrong to our race. More proof that you are imbecile, said the Duke, calmly. He shall not die. He is nothing to us except a mine from once to get gold. He is my grandson. I have a right to kill him. He is my nephew. He shall live. Do you defy me? With certainty I defy you. The new world permits no crazy Nana to rule a family. That is my privilege. If you persist it is you who shall go to the pit. If you have reason you shall remain in your garden in peace. Come, Tato, we will retire. He arose and took the child's hand. The old woman sat staring at them in silence, but with an evil glint in her glistening eyes. Uncle John turned around and softly made his retreat from the garden. His face wore a startled and horrified expression, and on his forehead stood great beads of sweat that the sultryness of the day did not account for. But he thought better of Yilduca. CHAPTER XXI. THE PIT. They met an hour later at luncheon, all but the duchessor who salt in her garden. Tato was bright and smiling, filled with a suppressed joy, which bubbled up in spite of the little one's effort to be dignified and sedate. When her hand stole under the table to find and press that of her father, Uncle John beamed upon her approvingly, for he knew what had occurred and could sympathize with her delight. The duke, however, was more somber than usual. He had defied his mother successfully so far, but he feared the terrible old woman more than did Tato, because he knew more of her history and of the bold and wicked deeds she had perpetrated in years gone by. Only once had a proposed victim escaped her, and that was when her own daughter Bianca had fallen in love with an American held for ransom and spirited him away from the valley through knowledge of the secret passage. It was well Bianca had fled with her lover, otherwise her mother would surely have killed her. But afterward, when the girl returned to die in the old home, all was forgiven, and only the hatred of her foreign husband, whose cruelty had driven her back to Sicily, remained to wrangle in the old duchessor's wicked heart. No one knew her evil nature better than her son. He entertained a suspicion that he had not conquered her by his recent opposition to her will. Indeed, he would never have dared to brave her anger except for Tato's sake. Tato was his idol, and in her defence the cowardly brigand had for the moment to become bold. Tato laughed and chatted with Uncle John all through the meal, even trying at times to cheer the doleful Feralty, who was nearly as glum and unsociable as her father. The servants and brigands at the lower end of the table looked upon the little one admiringly. It was evident she was a general favourite. On the porch, after luncheon, the duke broached the subject of the ransoms again, still maintaining the fable of selling his antique jewellery. Sir, said Uncle John, I'm going to submit gracefully, but upon one condition. The duke scowled. I allow no conditions, he said. You'd better allow this one, Uncle John replied, because it will make it easier for all of us. Of my own free will and accord I will make a present to Tato of fifty thousand dollars, and she shall have it for her dowry when she marries. Tato clapped her hands. How did you know I am a girl when I wear boys' clothes? she asked. Even the duke smiled at that, but the next moment he shook his head solemnly. It will not do, senor, he declared answering Uncle John's proposition. This is a business affair altogether. You must purchase the ring, and at once. The little American sighed. It had been his last hope. Very well, he said, have your own way. You will send to your friends for the money? Whenever you say, duke, you've got me in a hole, and I must wiggle out the best way I can. The brigand turned to frality. And you, senor, he asked. I do not know whether I can get the money you demand, but you will make the attempt, as I shall direct. Yes. Then, senor, it is all finished. In a brief time you will leave my hospitable roof. The sooner the better, declared Feralty. They sat for a time in silence, each busy with his thoughts. Go to your grandmother, Tato, said the duke, and try to make your peace with her. If she is too angry, do not remain. Tomorrow you must go into town with letters from these gentlemen to their friends. The child kissed him and went obediently to do his will. Then the brigand spoke to Tomasso, who bought writing material from the house and placed it upon a small table. Uncle John, without further demure, sat down to write. The duke dictated what he should say, although he was allowed to express the words in his own characteristic style, and he followed his instructions implicitly, secretly admiring the shrewdness of the brigand's methods. It was now Feralty's turn. He had just seated himself at the table and taken the pen when they were startled by a shrill scream from the rear of the house. It was followed by another and another in quick succession. It was Tato's voice, and the duke gave an answering cry and sprang from the veranda to dart quickly around the corner of the house. Uncle John followed him, nearly as fearful as the child's father. Tomasso seized a short rifle that stood near and ran around the house in the other direction when Feralty, who for a moment had seemed dazed by the interruption, followed Tomasso rather than the others. As they came to the rear they were amazed to see the old duchessor, whom they had known to be feeble and depended upon her women, rushed through the garden hedge with the agility of a man, bearing in her arms the struggling form of little Tato. The child screamed pitifully, but the woman glared upon Tomasso and Feralty as she passed them with the ferocity of a tiger. She is mad, cried Feralty, quick Tomasso, let us follow her. The brigand bounded forward, with the young man scarce a pace behind him. The woman, running with wonderful speed in spite of her burden, began to ascend a narrow path leading up the face of a rugged cliff. A yell of anguish from behind for a moment arrested Feralty's rapid pursuit. Glancing back he saw the duke running frantically toward them, at the same time waving his arms high above his head. The pit! he shouted. She is making for the pit. Stop her for the love of God! Feralty understood and dashed forward again at full speed. Tomasso also understood for his face was white and he muttered terrible odes as he pressed on. Yet run as they might, the mad dachessa was inspired with the strength so superhuman that she kept well in advance. But the narrow path ended halfway up the cliff. It ended at a deep chasm in the rocks, the edge of which was protected by a large flat stone like the curb of a well. With a final leap the old woman gained this stone, and while the dreadful pit yawned at her feet she turned and with a demoniical laugh faced her pursuers, hugging the child close to her breast. Tomasso and Feralty who were nearest paused instinctively. It was now impossible for them to prevent the tragedy about to be enacted. The duke, spurred on by fear, was yet twenty paces in their rear, and in a moment he also stopped, clasping his hands in the gesture of vain entreaty. Listen, Luigi, his mother called to him in a high, clear voice. This is the child that has come between us and turned you from a man into a coward. Here alone is the cause of our troubles. Behold, I will remove it forever from our path. With the words she lifted Tato high above her head and turned toward the pit. That terrible cleft in the rocks which was believed to have no bottom. At her first movement Tomasso had raised his gun and the duke, perceiving this, called to him in an agonised voice to fire, but either the brigand wavered between his loyalty to the duke or the duchessor, or he feared to injure Tato for he hesitated to obey and the moments were precious. The child's fate hung in the balance and the reality snatched the weapon from the brigand's hands and fired it so hastily that he scarcely seemed to take aim. A wild cry echoed the shot. The woman collapsed and fell, dropping Tato at her feet where they both tottered at the edge of the pit. The child, however, clung desperately to the outer edge of the flat stone while the duchessor's inert form seemed to hesitate for an instant and then disappeared from view. Tomasso ran forward and caught up the child, returning slowly along the path to place it in the father's arms. Feralty was looking vaguely from the weapon he held to the pit and then back again, as if not fully understanding what he had done. Thank you, senore, said the duke brokenly, for saving my precious child. But I have slain your mother, cried the young man, horrified. The obligation is even, replied the duke. She was also your grandmother. Feralty stood motionless, his face working convulsively, his tongue refusing to utter a sound. But he did not shoot my grandmother at all, said Tato, who was sobbing against her father's breast. For I heard the bullet strike the rock beside us. My grandmother's strength gave way and she fainted. It was that that saved me, Padromia. End of chapter 21 Chapter 22 of Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Philip Griffiths Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 22 News at Last Kenneth Forbes had always been an unusual boy. He had grown up in an unfriendly atmosphere, unloved and uncared for, and resented this neglect with all the force of his impetuous nature. He had hated Aunt Jane and regarded her as cruel and selfish, a fair estimate of her character, until Aunt Jane's Nieces taught him to be more considerate and forgiving. Patricia especially had exercised a gentler influence upon the arbitrary youth, and as a consequence they had become staunch friends. When the unexpected inheritance of a fortune changed the boy's condition from one of dependence to one of importance, he found he had no longer any wrongs to resent. Therefore his surly and brusque moods gradually disappeared, and he became a pleasant companion to those he cared for. With strangers he still remained reserved and suspicious, and occasionally the old sullen fits would seize him, and it was well to avoid his society while they lasted. On his arrival at Tormena Kenneth had entered earnestly into the search for Uncle John, whom he regarded most affectionately. And having passed the day tramping over the mountains he would fill the evening with discussions and arguments with the Nieces concerning the fate of their missing uncle. But as the days dragged wearily away the search slackened and was finally abandoned. Kenneth set up his easel in the garden and began to paint old Etna with its wreath of snow and the soft grey cloud of vapour that perpetually hovered over it. Anyone with half a soul could paint that, said Patsy, and as a proof of her assertion the boy did very well indeed, except that his uneasiness on Mr. Merrick's account served to distract him more or less. Nor was Kenneth the only uneasy one. Mr. Watson, hard-headed man of resources he was, grew more and more dejected as he realised the impossibility of interesting the authorities in the case. The Sicilian officials were silent and uncommunicative. The Italians, wholly indifferent. If strangers came to Torminna and got into difficulties the government was in no way to blame. It was their duty to tolerate tourists, but those all too energetic foreigners must take care of themselves. Probably Mr. Watson would have cabled the State Department at Washington for assistance had he not expected each day to put him in communication with his friend and in the end he congratulated himself upon his patience. The close of the week brought a sudden and startling change in the situation. The girls sat on the shaded terrace one afternoon watching the picture of Etna grow under Kenneth's deft touches when they observed a child approaching them with shy diffidence. It was a beautiful Sicilian boy with wonderful brown eyes and a delicate profile. After assuring himself that the party of young Americans was quite separate from any straggling guest of the hotel the child came near enough to say in a low tone I have a message from senior America. They crowded around him eagerly then reigning questions from every side but the boys shrank away and said warningly if we are overheard senior Enemia it would be very bad no one must suspect that I am here. Is my uncle well? asked Patsy imploringly quite well amiss. And have you also news of Count Feralty? anxiously inquired Louise. Oh Feralty, he is better some teeth are knocked out but he eats very well without them replied the child with an amused laugh. Where are our friends my lad? Kenneth asked. I cannot describe the place senore but here are letters to explain all. The child produced a bulky package and after a glance at each in turn placed it in Patsy's hands. Read very secretly senior Eni and decide your course of action. Tomorrow I will come for your answer in the meantime confide in no one but yourselves. If you are indiscreet you alone will become the murderers of senior Merrick and the sad young Feralty. Who are you? asked Beth examining the child closely. I am called Tato senior Enemia. Where do you live? It is all explained in the letters believe me. Beth glanced at Patricia who was examining the package and now all crowded around for a glimpse of Uncle John's well known handwriting. The wrapper was inscribed to Miss Doyle Mr. Graff and Miss Merrick Hotel Castello Amare Tormina by the safe hands of Tato. Inside were two letters one addressed to Louise personally she seized this and ran a little distance away while Beth took Uncle John's letter from Patsy's trembling hands and having opened it read aloud in a clear and composed voice the following my dear nieces and also my dear friends Silas Watson and Kenneth Forbes if they are with you greeting you have perhaps been wondering at my absence which I will explain by saying that I am visiting a noble acquaintance in a very cozy and comfortable retreat which I am sure would look better from a distance my spirits and health are A number one and it is my intention to return to you as soon as you have executed a little commission for me which I want you to do exactly as I hereby instruct you in other words if you don't execute the commission you will probably execute me I have decided to purchase a valuable antique ring from my host at a price of $50,000 which trifling some I must have at once to complete the transaction or until full payment is made I cannot rejoin you therefore you must hasten to raise the dough here is the program my dear girls one of you must go by first train to Messina and cable Isham, Marvin and Co to deposit with the New York correspondence of the banker commercialiana italiana $50,000 and have instructions cabled to the Messina branch of that bank to pay the sum to the written order of John Merrick this should all be accomplished within 24 hours present the enclosed order together with my letter of credit and passport which will identify my signature and draw the money in cash return with it to Tormina give it secretly to the boy Tato who will bring it to me I will rejoin you within 3 hours after I have paid for the ring this may seem a strange proceeding to you my dears but you must not hesitate to accomplish it if you love me should my old friend Silas Watson be now with you as I expect him to be he will assist you to do my bidding for he will be able to realize better than I can now explain how important it is to me also I beg you to do a like service for Alty who is entrusting his personal commission to Louise he also must conclude an important purchase before he can return to Tormina more than this I am not permitted to say in this letter confiding no stranger or official of any sort and act as secretly and quietly as possible I hope to soon be with you very affectionately Uncle John what does it all mean asked Patsy bewildered when Beth had finished reading why it is clear enough I am sure said Kenneth Uncle John is imprisoned by brigands and the money he requires is his ransom we must get it as soon as possible you know and luckily he is so rich that he won't miss this little draft at all Beth sat silent angrily staring at the letter I suppose said Patsy hesitating the robbers will do the dear uncle some mischief if he doesn't pay just knock him on the head that's all said the boy but there is no need to worry we can get the money easily suddenly Beth jumped up where is that girl she demanded sharply what girl Tato Tato my dear cousin is a boy answered Kenneth disappeared ages ago you must be blind said Beth scornfully not to recognize a girl when you see one a boy indeed why he dressed like a boy replied Kenneth hesitatingly so much the more disgraceful sniffed Beth she belongs to those brigands I suppose looks something like Victor Valdey said Patsy thoughtfully Ilduka of course I see it myself now Patricia it is that wicked Duke who has captured Uncle John I had guessed that declared Patsy smiling he must be a handsome rascal observed Kenneth for the child is pretty as a picture he isn't handsome at all replied Beth but there is a look about the child's eyes that reminds me of him that's it exactly I've read Patsy Louise now approached them with a white frightened face isn't it dreadful she moaned they're going to kill Feralty unless he gives them thirty thousand dollars and I don't believe he can raise thirty cents said Patsy calmly oh yes he can answered Louise beginning to cry his father is dead and has left him a fortune don't blubber Lou said the boy chidingly in that case your day go friend is as well off as need be but I suppose you're afraid that no account count won't figure his life is worth thirty thousand dollars it does seem like an awful price to pay for a foreigner it isn't that said Louise striving to control her emotion he says he hates to be robbed he wouldn't pay a penny if he could help it good for the count I don't blame him a bit exclaimed Beth it is a beastly shame that free born Americans should be enslaved by a crew of thieving Sicilians and obliged to purchase their freedom true for you said Kenneth nodding but what are we going to do about it pay of course decided Patsy promptly our uncle John is too precious to be sacrificed for all the money in the world come let's go and find Mr. Watson we ought not to lose a moment's time the lawyer read Uncle John's letter carefully as well as the one from Count Feralty which Louise confided to him with the request that he keep the young man's identity a secret for the time until he could reveal it to her cousin's in person the only thing to be done announced Mr. Watson is to carry out these instructions faithfully we can send the cable messages from here and in the morning Louise and I will take the train from Massina and remain there until we get the money it's an outrage cried Beth of course my dear but it can't be helped and your uncle is wise to take them at us so cheerfully after all it is little enough to pay for one's life and liberty and our friend is so wealthy that he will never feel the loss at all it isn't that it's the principle of the thing that I object to said the girl it's down like disgraceful to be robbed so easily to be sure but the disgrace is Italy's not ours object all you want to Beth dear continue the old lawyer smiling at her but nevertheless we'll pay as soon as possible and have done with it what we want now is your uncle John we want him mighty badly really the pirates didn't charge enough for him added Patsy so Mr. Watson sent the cables to John Merrick's bankers and Count Feralta's attorney and the next morning went with Louise to Massina Frascati drove all the party down the road to the station at Giardina and as the train pulled out Beth who had remained seated in the Victoria with Patricia and Kenneth suddenly stood up to pull the veterano's sleeve tell me Frascati she whispered isn't that ill-ducus child look that little one standing in the corner why yes it is really Tato answered the man before he thought to deny it very well you may now drive us home returned Beth a shade of triumph in her voice End of Chapter 22 Chapter 23 of Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Bridget Gage Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 23 Beth begins to plot once back in their sitting-room behind closed doors Beth, Patsy, and Kenneth got their three heads together and began eagerly to discuss a plot which Beth had hinted of on the way home and now unfolded in detail and while they still whispered together a knock at the door startled them and made them look rather guilty until the boy answered the call and admitted little Tato the child's beautiful face were a smile of demure satisfaction as Tato bowed respectfully to the young Americans Kenneth winked at Beth and signed the visitors back as you have a guest he remarked with a yawn that was somewhat rude I shall now go and take my nap what do you sleep so early in the day you lazy bones asked Patsy brightly anytime my dear is good enough for an overworked artist he replied I'll reward my cousins see you at luncheon with this he strolled away and when he had gone Beth said to Tato won't you sit down surprised yes I can see plainly that you are a girl and a pretty one too my dear added Patsy Tato blushed as if embarrassed but in a moment smiled upon the American girls do you think me immodest then she asked anxiously by no means my dear Beth assured her I suppose you have an excellent reason for wearing boys clothes so I have seen arena I live in the mountains where dresses catch in the crags and bother a girl my dear has always been heartbroken because he had no son and likes to see me in this attire he has many errands for me too where a boy may go unnoticed yet a girl would attract too much attention this is one of the errands senorini but now tell me if you please how have you decided to answer the letters of senior Merrick and senior Feralty oh there was but one way to answer them Tato replied Beth compositely we have send Mr. Watson and Louise Merrick to Messina to get the money if our friends in America act promptly Mr. Watson and Louise will return by tomorrow afternoon's train and be prepared to make the payment that is well senorina responded to Tato we are to give the money to you I suppose said Patsy yes I will return for it tomorrow afternoon answered the child with business like gravity then she looked earnestly from one to the other of the two girls you must act discreetly in the meantime you know you must not talk to anyone or do anything to imperil your uncle's safety of course not Tato I beg you not senorini the uncle is a good man and brave I do not wish him to be injured nor do we Tato and the young man is not a coward either he has been kind to me but he is sad and not so pleasant to talk with as the uncle true enough Tato said Beth Patsy had been examining the child the little one was so lovely and graceful and her voice sounded so soft and womanly that Patsy longed to take her in her arms and hug her how old are you dear she asked Tato saw the friendly look and answered with a smile perhaps as old as you senorina although I am so much smaller I shall be fifteen in a month so old Tato laughed merrily ah you might well say so young amico mia to be grown up is much nicer do you not think so and then I shall not look such a baby as now and half people scold me when I get in the way as they do little bambini but when you are grown you cannot wear boys clothes either Tato sighed we have a saying in Sicily that each year has its sunshine and rain which means its sorrows and its joy she answered perhaps I sometimes think more of the tears than of the laughter although I know that is wrong not always shall I be a mountaineer and then the soft dresses of the young girls shall be my portion well I like them better I do not know but I must go now instead of chattering here farewell senorini until tomorrow will you not remain with us oh no although you are kind I am expected home but tomorrow I will come for the money you will be silent surely Tato the child smiled upon them pleasantly tender girls instead of cold and resentful men such as she had sometimes met at the door she blew a kiss to them and darted away in the courtyard Friscati saw her gliding out and discreetly turned his head the other way Tato took the old road circling around the theatre and through the narrow winding streets of the lower town to the Catania gate she looked back once or twice but no one noticed her if any of the villagers saw her approaching they slipped out of her path once on the highway however Tato became lost in reflection her mission being successfully accomplished it required no further thought but the sweet young American girls had made a strong impression upon the lonely Sicilian maid and she dreamed of their pretty gowns and ribbons their fresh and comely faces and the gentleness of their demeanor Tato was not gentle she was wild and free and boyish and had no pretty gowns whatever but what then she must help her father to get his fortune and then he had promised her that some day they would go to Paris or Cairo and live in the world and be bragrands no longer she would like that she thought as she clambered up the steep paths and perhaps she would meet these American girls again or others like them and make them her friends she had never known a girlfriend as yet these ambitions would yesterday have seemed far in the dim future but now that her stern old grandmother was gone her father would soon fulfill his promise while the Ducasa lived she ruled them all and she was a brigand to the backbone now her father's will prevailed and he could refuse his child nothing Kenneth was not an expert detective but he had managed to keep Tato in sight without being suspected by her he had concealed himself near the catania gate through which he knew she must pass and by good luck she had never looked around once so intent were her musings when she came to the end of the path and leaned against the rock to sing the broken refrain which was the open sesame to the valley the boy was hidden snug behind a boulder where he could watch her every movement then the rock opened Tato passed in and the open and closed behind her Kenneth found a foothold and climbed up the wall of rock higher and higher until at last he crept upon a high ridge and looked over the hidden valley lay spread before him in all its beauty but the precipice at his feet was a sheer drop of a hundred feet or more and he drew back with a shutter then he took courage to look again and observed the house on the porch of which stood Tato engaged in earnest conversation with a tall dark Sicilian Uncle John was nowhere to be seen but the boy understood that he was there nevertheless and realized that his prison was so secure that escape was impossible and now he climbed down again a much more difficult feet than getting up though he was forced to risk his life several times he was agile and clear-headed and finally dropped to the path that led to the secret door of the passage his next thought was to mark the exact location of the place so that he could find it again and as he returned slowly along the paths through the rocky fissures he took mental note of every curve in communication and believed he could now find his way to the retreat of the brigands at any time he chose End of Chapter 23 Chapter 24 of Aunt Jane's nieces abroad this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Bridget Gage Aunt Jane's nieces abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 24 Patsy's new friend I must say that I don't like the job said Patsy the next morning as she stood by the window suppose we fail in the bright lexicon of youth shut up Ken if we fail said Beth we will be no worse off than before and if we win added the boy they'll think twice before they try to rob Americans again well I'm with you anyhow declared Patricia I can see it's risky all right but as you say no great harm will be done if we slip up you announced Beth gravely must be the captain it isn't in me dear I figured the thing out and Ken and I will follow your lead no said Beth decidedly I'm not quick enough either in thought or action to be a leader Patsy and there's a bit of deception required that I couldn't manage that clever little thing Tatto would know at once I was up to some mischief but she would never suspect you I like that compliment replied Patricia I may deserve it of course but it strikes me Louise is the best one fitted for such work we can't let Louise into this plot said the boy positively she'd spoil it all don't be silly Patsy said Beth you're genuine and frank and the child likes you I could see that yesterday all you have to do is to be nice to her and win her confidence and then when the climax comes you must be the spokesman and talk straight out from the shoulder you can do that all right all but on her cried Kenneth with an admiring look at the girl and Patsy it is all arranged and I'm the captain and is it agreed that we won't list the word to Mr. Watson or Louise not a word here said Kenneth drawing a revolver from his pocket is Uncle John's pop gun it's the only one I could find in his room so he must have taken the other with him be careful of it Patsy for it's loaded all round can you shoot no but I suppose the pistol can I know enough to pull the trigger remember to point it away from your friends now hide at my dear and be careful of it Patsy concealed the weapon in the bosom of her dress not without making a rye face and shivering a bit have you got your revolver Beth asked the boy yes and she can shoot just wonderfully exclaimed Patsy yesterday she picked an orange off a tree with a bullet you should have seen her I know said Ken Notting I've seen Beth shoot before Patsy for my part I can hit a mark sometimes and sometimes I can't see here he exhibited a beautiful pearl and silver-mounted weapon which he drew from his pocket Mr. Watson and I have carried revolvers ever since we came to Sicily but we've never had occasion to use them I can hardly believe even now that this beautiful place harbors Burgans it's such a romantic incident in our prosaic world of today and now young ladies and can defy an army eh Captain Pat if you're not more respectful said the girl I'll have you court-martialed and drummed out of camp on the afternoon train came Louise and Mr. Watson from Messina the American agents had responded promptly and to the bank had honored the orders and delivered the money without delay it is all safe in my satchel said the lawyer as they rode together to the hotel and our dear friends are as good as rescued already it's pretty bulky Kenneth four hundred thousand lira but it is all in notes on the Banca di Italia for we couldn't manage gold quite a haul for the Brigand observed Kenneth thoughtfully true but little enough for the lives of two men that is the way I look at the transaction and since our friends can afford the loss we must be as cheerful over the thing as possible it might have been a tragedy you know Louise shivered I'm glad it is all over she said gratefully the conspirators looked at one another and smiled but held their peace arriving at the hotel Beth and Kenneth at once disappeared saying they were going to town as they would not be needed longer Patsy accompanied their cousin and the lawyer to the sitting-room where presently Tato came to them well little one said the lawyer pleasantly we have secured the money required to enable Mr. Merrick to purchase the ring and Mr. or count Feralty to buy his bracelet yes senior if you please replied Tato with a sober face Mr. Watson drew out two packages of banknotes and placed them upon the table the child realizing the importance of the occasion carefully counted each bundle and then replaced the wrappers the amounts are correct senior she said I thank you for making my task so easy and now I will go the lawyer brought a newspaper and wrapped the money in it once again it is always dangerous to carry so much money said he but now no one will be likely to suspect the contents of your package Tato smiled no one would care to molest me she said for they fear those that protect me good afternoon senior your friends will be with you in time to dine in your company good afternoon seniorine turning to Patsy and Louise I'll walk a little way with you may I asked Patsy smiling into Tato's splendid eyes to be sure seniorina was the quick response Patricia caught up a sunshade and followed the child out at the side entrance which was little used Tato took the way along the old road and Patsy walked beside her chatting brightly of the catacombs the Norman villa that showed its checkered tower above the trees and the ancient wall that still hemmed in the little village I love tower Mina she said earnestly and shall be sorry to leave it you must be very happy Tato to be able to live here always it is my birthplace she said but I longed to get away from it and see other countries the view is fine they say but it tires me the air is sweet and pure but it oppresses me the climate is glorious but I have had enough of it and other places there is novelty and many things that Sicily knows nothing of that is true replied Patsy tucking the little one's arm underneath her own with a sympathetic gesture Tato you must come to America someday and visit me I will make you very welcome dear and you shall be my friend the child looked into her face earnestly you do not hate me Srina because because why because my aren't to you has been so lawless and unfriendly Tato you do not choose this life do you no Srina it is forced on you by circumstances truly Srina I know you would not long so wistfully to change your condition if you enjoyed being a little brigand but nothing that has passed must interfere with our friendship dear if I were in your place you see I would do just as you have done it is not a very honest life Tato nor one to be proud of but I'm not going to blame you one bit they had passed the catania gate and reached the foot of one of the mountain paths Tato paused hesitatingly oh I'll go a little farther said Patsy promptly no one will notice two girls you know shall I carry your parcel for a time no reply the child hugging it close with her disengaged arm but she offered no objection when Patsy continued to walk by her side have you any brothers or sisters Tato no Srina have you a mother no Srina my father and I are alone I know him well Tato we were on the ship together crossing the ocean he was gruff and disagreeable but I made him talk to me and smile I know he has told me of the Srina Patsy he has fond of you yet he robbed my uncle the child flushed and drew away her arm that is it that is why you should hate me she replied bitterly I know it is robbery and brigandage although my father masks it by saying he sells antiques until now I have seen nothing wrong of this life Srina why dear because you are so good and gentle and so forgiving Patsy laughed in reality Tato I am resentful and unforgiving you will find out soon that I am a very human girl and then I will not make you ashamed but your father's business is shameful nevertheless Tato is plainly puzzled and knew not what to reply but just then they reached the end of the crevasse and the child said you must return now Srina Patsy but why cannot I go on with you and come back with my uncle Tato hesitated accustomed as she was to duplicity and acting in her capacity as lure for her thieving father the child was just now softened by Patsy's kindly manner and the successful accomplishment of her mission she had no thought of any treachery or deception on the part of the American girl and the request seemed to her natural enough if you like she decided you may come as far and there wait for your uncle it will not be long very well dear Tato clambered over the dividing rock and dropped into the path beyond Patsy springed lightly after her a short distance further and they reached the barrier this is the place Srina you will sit upon that stone and wait until your uncle appears she hesitated and then added softly I may not see you again but you will not forget me never Tato you must not forget to visit me remember whatever happens that we are friends and must always remain so the child nodded gratefully then leaning against the face of the cliff she raised her voice and warbled clearly the bit of song that served as the signal to her father end of chapter 24 Aunt Jane's niece is abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 25 Turning the Tables No sooner had the note ceased than Kenneth sprang from behind a rock that had concealed him and grasped the child in his strong arms trying to cover her mouth at the same time to prevent her from crying out Tato developed surprising strength the adventure of yesterday had so thoroughly frightened her and when she found herself again seized she struggled madly the boy found that he could scarcely hold her so he unfolded her in both arms and letting her scream as she might picked up her tiny form and mounted the slope of the hill leaping from rock to rock until he came to a broad boulder 20 feet or more above the path here he paused panting in awaited results the rock doors had opened promptly even while Kenneth struggled with the brigand's daughter Patsy could see straight through the tunnel and into the valley beyond the child had dropped her bundle in the effort to escape and while Kenneth was leaping with her up the crags Patsy ran forward and secured the money returning quickly to a position facing the tunnel and now they heard shouts and the sound of hastening feet isle-dulce ran from the tunnel followed closely by two of his brigands they paused a moment at the entrance as if bewildered but when the father saw his child in the grasp of a stranger and heard her screams he answered with a roar of fury and prepared to scramble up the rock to rescue her that was where Patsy showed her mettle she hastily covered the brigand with her revolver and shouted warningly stop! you were a dead man it was wonderfully dramatic and effective Oldusus shrank back scowling for he had no weapon at hand leaning against the entrance to his valley he glared around to determine the number of his foes and the probable chance of defeating them Kenneth laughed boyishly at his discomfort kneeling down the youth grasped potato by both wrists and mowered her body over the edge of the rock literally just touched a little ledge beneath he continued to hold fast to her wrist though and there she remained stretched against the face of the rock fronting the path in full view of all that's still unable to move from the success-burning sight Oldusus glanced at Patsy she was holding the revolver rigidly extended and her blue eyes blazed with the excitement of the moment it was a wonder she did not pull the trigger inadvertently and the thought that she might do so caused the brigand to shudder turning half around he beheld a third enemy quietly seated upon the rocks directly across the path from Kenneth her pose unconcerned as she rested her chin lightly upon her left hand it was Beth who held her revolver nonchalantly and gazed upon the scene below her with calm interest the Duke gave a cough to clear his throat his men hung back with him silent and motionless but they did not like this absolute and dangerous defiance of their chief Tell me then Tato he called in English what is the cause of this trouble I do not know my father except that these are friends of senior Marek who have secretly followed me here the Carefully Arranged program gave Patsy a speech at this point but she had entirely forgotten it Let me explain so Beth coldly you have dared to detain in your robbers den the persons of Mr. American Count Feralty you also demanded a ransom for their release that is brigandage which is denounced by the laws of Sicily we have appealed to the authorities but they are helpless to assist us therefore being Americans we have decided to assist ourselves we command you to deliver to us on this spot safe and uninjured the persons of our friends and that without any unnecessary delay the Duke listened with a snare and if we refuse senorina if you refuse if you do not obey at once I swear that I will shoot your child Tato whose body yonder awaits my bullet and afterward I shall kill you as she spoke she leveled the revolver and aimed it carefully at the exposed body of the child the brigand paled and grasped the rock to steady himself but no girl can shoot from that distance he exclaimed scornfully indeed take care of your finger called Beth and a shot echoed sharply among the mountainside the brigand jumped and uttered a yell at the same time whipping his right hand underneath his left arm where Beth's bullet had struck one of his fingers and then flattened itself against the cliff that settled all argument as far as Elder Sol was concerned for he now had ample evidence that the stern eyed girl above him could shoot and was not to be trifled with all his life he had ruled by the terror of his threats today he was suddenly vanquished by a determination he dared not withstand enough he cried I would show away he spoke to his men in Italian may hasten through the tunnel, glad to escape following their departure there was a brief silence during which all stood alert then Tato still half suspended against the cliff said in a clear soft voice father if you think you can escape let them shoot me and keep your prisoners the money for their ransom I brought to this place and they will pay it even yet to save their friends from your vengeance do not refuse while the Americans defeat us I beg of you, I am not afraid save yourself and let them shoot me if they will Kenneth afterward declared that he thought the jig was up then but they had no intention whatever of harming Tato it was all merely a bit of American blood and it succeeded because the brigand was a coward and dared not emulate his daughter's courage no, no, Tato cried the duke brokenly as he wrung his hands in anguish there is more money to be had but I have only one child you shall not harm a hair of your head my pretty one Patsy wanted to yell Bravo! with wisely refrained her eyes were full of tears though and a resolution at Ebtide fortunately the men had made haste they returned with surprising promptness pushing the amazed prisoners before them Uncle John, as he emerged from the tunnel looked around upon the tragic seaming gas well, I declare Count Feralty was more composed if equally surprised he lifted his hat politely to Beth and Patsy and smiled with great satisfaction you are free said El Dosa harshly go they lost no time in getting the brigands between themselves in the mouth of the tunnel and then Kenneth gently drew Tato to his place beside him and assisted her to clammer down the path goodbye little one he said pleasantly you're what we call a brick in our country I like you and I'm proud of you Tato did not reply with streaming eyes she was examining her father's shattered hand and sobbing at the side of the blood that dripped upon the rocks at his feet get inside called bless sharply and close up that rock lively now the girl who could not shoot still sat toying with her revolver and the mountaineers obeyed her injunction the rock promptly closed and the group of Americans was left alone didn't Beth came slowly down to where Patsy was hugging Uncle John and a wild frenzy of delight and Count Feralty was shaking Kenneth's hand with a face eloquent of emotion come she said her voice sounding faint and weary let us get away from here it was a pretty game where it lasted but I'll feel safer when we're home again where's the money I've got it said Kenneth holding up to package what didn't you pay demanded Uncle John astounded of course not dear said Patsy gleefully did you think your nieces would let you be robbed by a bunch of daggers Feralty caught hold of Beth's swaying form look after your cousin I think she is fainted End of Chapter 25 Recording by Chelsea Baker Chapter 26 of Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Bridget Gage Aunt Jane's Nieces Abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 26 The Count on Masks And now, said Uncle John as he sat in their cozy sitting-room it's about time for you to give an account of yourselves, you young grascals they hid E in a late but very satisfactory dinner at the Castello Abmer where the return of the missing ones was hailed with joy by the proprietor and his assistants even the little be whiskered head waiter who resembled a jack-in-the-box more than he did a man strove to celebrate the occasion by putting every good thing the house afforded before the returned guests for although they dared not interfere with the victims of the terrible Ilduca the hotel people fully recognized the fact that Brigandage was not a good advertisement for Terra Mina and hoped the little incident would not become generally known Old Silas Watson, dignified lawyer as he was, actually danced a hornpipe when he beheld his old friend safe and sound but he shook his head reproachfully when he learned of the adventure his ward and the two girls had undertaken with such temerity Beth had quickly recovered from her weakness although Kenneth had insisted on keeping her arm all the way home but the girl had been silent and thoughtful and would eat nothing at dinner when they had gathered in their room to talk it all over the lawyer thought his young friends deserved a reproof the money wasn't worth the risk you crazy lunatics he said it wasn't the money at all replied Patsy demerly no it was the principle of the thing and wasn't Beth just wonderful though shucks, said Kenneth she had to go in faint like a ninny and she cried all the way home because she had hurt the Brigand's finger the girl's eyes were still red but she answered the boy's scornful remark by saying, gravely I am sorry it had to be done I'll never touch a revolver again as long as I live Uncle John gathered his brave niece into an ample embrace I'm very proud of you my dear he said, stroking her hair lovingly and you mustn't pay any attention to that silly boy I've always known you were true blue, Beth and now you have proved it to everyone it may have been a reckless thing to do as Mr. Watson says but you did it like a major and saved our self-esteem as well as our money hurrah for Beth yelled the boy changing his colors without a blush if you don't shut up I'll box your ears said his guardian sternly Uncle John and young Feralty were the heroes of the evening this gentleman smoked a big cigar and beamed upon his nieces and friends with intense satisfaction while Feralty sat glum and silent beside Louise until an abrupt challenge from Mr. Merrick effectually aroused him I've only one fault to find with this young man was the observation referred to that he made our acquaintance under false pretenses when a fairly decent fellow becomes an imposter there is usually reason for it and I would like Count Feralty whatever his name is to give us that reason and make a clean breast of his deception Feralty bowed with a serious face but looked significantly toward the other members of the company whatever you have to say should be heard by all declared Uncle John answering the look perhaps you are right Mr. Merrick and all present are entitled to an explanation answered the young man slowly I may have been foolish but I believe I have done nothing that I need be ashamed of fortunately there is now no further reason for concealment on my part and in listening to my explanation I hope you will be as considerate as possible they were a ton of enough by this time and every eye was turned not unkindly upon the youth who had so long been an enigma to them all except perhaps to Louise I am an American by birth and my name is Arthur Weldon in the pause that followed Uncle John gave a soft whistle and Patsy left outright to the undisguised indignation of Louise years ago resumed the youth my father who was a rich man made a trip to Sicily and although I did not know this until recently was seized by Burgans and imprisoned in the hidden valley we have just left there he fell in love with a beautiful girl who was the daughter of the female Burgand known as the Duchess of Alcanta and who assisted him to escape and then married him it was a pretty romance at the time my father had taken his bride home to New York and become immersed in the details of his business his love grew cold and he began to neglect his wife cruelly he became a railway president and amassed a great fortune but was not so successful as husband as he was a financier the result was that the Sicilian girl after some years of unhappiness and suffering deserted him and returned to her own country leaving her child then three years old behind her to be frank with you, it was said at the time that my mother's mind had become unbalanced or she would not have abandoned me to the care of a loveless father but I prefer to think that she had come to hate her husband so bitterly that she could have no love for his child or else she feared that her terrible mother would kill me if I came into her power her flight mattered little to my father except that it made him more stern and tyrannical toward me he saw me very seldom and confided my education to servants so I grew up practically unloved and uncared for and when the proper time arrived I was sent to college my father now gave me an ample allowance and at the close of my college career called me into his office and ordered me to enter the employee of the railway company I objected to this I did not like the business and had other plans for my future but he was stubborn and dictatorial and when I continued unsubmissive carefully and leave his fortune to charity since he had no other near relatives he must have thought better of this decision afterward for he gave me a year to decide whether or not I would obey him at the end of that time he declared I would become either a pauper or his heir at my option it was during this year that I formed the acquaintance of your niece Ms. Merrick and grew to love her devotedly Louise returned my affection but her mother, learning of my quarrel refused to sanction our engagement until I was acknowledged as heir I was forbidden her house but naturally we met elsewhere and when I knew she was going to Europe with you sir who had never seen me we hit upon what we thought was a happy and innocent plan to avoid the long separation I decided to go to Europe also and without you or your other nieces suspecting my identity attach myself to your party and enjoy the society of Louise while she remained abroad so I followed you on the next ship and met you at Sorrento where I introduced myself as Count Feralty a name we had agreed I should assume before we parted in America the rest of my story you know my father was killed in an accident on his railroad and I received the news while we were prisoners of the Brigande whom I discovered to be my uncle but who had no mercy upon me because of the relationship tonight on my return here I found a letter from my father's attorney forwarded from my bankers in Paris through my father's sudden death I have inherited all his wealth as he had no time to alter his will therefore Mrs. Merrick's objection to me is now removed and Louise has never cared whether I had a penny or not he halted as if not knowing what more to say and the little group of listeners remained quiet because it seemed that no remark from them was necessary young Weldon however was ill at ease and after hitching nervously in his chair he addressed Uncle John in these words sir you are the young lady's guardian for the present and she is in your charge I therefore ask your consent to our formal engagement not any said Uncle John decidedly I'll sanction no engagement of any children on this trip you were wrong in supposing I am Louise's guardian I'm just her chum and uncle it's like cradle snatching to want to marry a girl of sixteen and you ought to be ashamed of yourself for you can't be much more than twenty one yourself while Louise is in my care I won't have any entanglements of any sort so you'll have to wait till you get home and settle the business with her mother very wise and proper sir said Mr. Watson not engravelly Louise's cheeks were flaming do you intend to drive Arthur away Uncle she asked why should I my dear except that you've both taken me for a blind old idiot and tried to deceive me let the boy stay with us if he wants to but he'll have to cut out all lovemaking and double dealing from this time on or I'll take you home and double quick time the young man seemed to resent the indictment the deception seemed necessary at the time sir he said and you must not forget the old adage that all is fair and love and more but I beg that you will forgive us both and overlook our fault if fault it was hereafter it is our desire to be perfectly frank with you in all things this was a good way to disarm Uncle John's anger and the result was immediately apparent very good said the old gentleman if you are proper and obedient children I've no objection to your being together I rather like you Arthur Weldon and most of your failings are due to the foolishness of youth but you've got to acquire dignity now for you have suddenly become a man of consequence in the world don't think you've got to marry every girl that attracts you by her pretty face this devotion to Louise maybe puppy love after all and oh uncle came a chorus of protest watch you rascals are you encouraging this desperate foul de ral you are too severe Uncle John said Patsy smiling the trouble with you is that you've never been in love yourself never been in love he beamed upon the three girls with devotion written all over his round jelly face then you're jealous said Kenneth give the poor kids a fair show Uncle John all right I will Arthur my lad join our happy family is one of my kidlets and love us all but no one in particular eh until we get home again you know we've started out to have the time of our lives and we're getting it in chunks eh girls we certainly are Uncle John another chorus well what do you say Arthur Weldon perhaps you are right sir answered the young man and anyway I am deeply grateful for your kindness I fear I must return home in a couple of weeks to look after business matters but while I remain with you I shall try to conduct myself as you wish that sounds proper is it satisfactory to you Louise yes Uncle then we've settled Cupid for a time anyway and now my dears I think we have all had enough of Taramina where shall we go next End of Chapter 26 Chapter 27 of Aunt Jane's nieces abroad this is the LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Aunt Jane's nieces abroad by L. Frank Baum Chapter 27 Tato is adopted they canvassed the subject of their future travels with considerable earnestness Uncle John was bent upon getting to Rome and Venice and from there to Paris and the nieces were willing to go anywhere he preferred as they were sure to enjoy every day of their trip in the old world but Mr. Watson urged them strongly to visit Syracuse since they were not likely to return to Sicily again and the most famous of all the ancient historic capitals was only a few hours' journey from Taumina so it was finally decided to pass a week in Syracuse before returning to the convent and preparations where it once began for their departure Kenneth pleaded for one more day in which to finish his picture of Etna and this was allowed him Uncle John nevertheless confessed to being uneasy as long as they remained on the scene of his recent exciting experiences Mr. Watson advised them all not to stray far from the hotel as there was no certainty that Old Lusa would not make another attempt to entrap them or at least to be revenge for their escape from his clutches on the afternoon of the next day however they were startled by a call from the Duke in person he was dressed in his usual faded velvet costume and came to them leading by at the hand a beautiful little girl the nieces gazed at the child in astonishment Tata wore grey cloth gown ill-fitting and of course material but no costume could destroy any of them material but no costume could destroy the fairy-like perfection of her form or the daintiness of her exquisite features with downcast eyes and a troubled expression she stood modestly before them until Patsy caught her rapturously in her arms and covered her face with kisses you lovely lovely thing she cried I'm so glad to see you again Tato darling the Duke's stern features softened he sighed heavily and accepted Uncle John's polite invitation to be seated the little party of Americans was fairly astounded at this unexpected visit Kenneth regretted that he left his revolver upstairs but the others remembered that the brigand would not dare to molest them in the security of the hotel grounds and were more curious than afraid Ildus's hand was wrapped in a bandage but the damaged finger did not seem to affect him seriously Beth could not take her eyes off this dreadful evidence of her late conflict and stared at it as if the bandage fascinated her Signore said the Duke addressing Uncle John especially I owe to you my apologies and my excuses for the annoyance I have caused to you and your friends I have the explanation if you also kindly permit me Fire away Duke was the response Signore I unfortunately come of a race of brigands for centuries my family has been lawless and it was natural that by education I too should become a brigand in my youth my father was killed in an affray and my mother took his place seizing many prisoners and exacting from them ransom my mother you have seen and you know of her sudden madness and of her death she was always mad I think and by nature a theme she urged my elder brother to wicked crimes and when he rebelled she herself cast him in a fit of anger into the pit I became Duke in his place and did my mother's bidding because I feared to oppose her but for years I have longed to abandon the life and have done with crime with me our race ends for I have no sons but my one child whom you know as Teto I love dearly my greatest wish is to see her happy the last few days have changed the fortunes of us both the Tuchetza is gone and I am at last the master of my own faith as for Teto she has been charmed by the young American Signorini and longs to be like them so we come to ask that you forgive the wrong we did to you and that you will now allow us to be your friends Uncle John was amazed you have decided to reform Duke yes Signore not alone for Teto's sake but because I love the life of Brigendesh see here is my thought at once I will dispense my men and send them away my household effects I will sell and then abandon the valley forever Teto and I have some money enough to live in quiet in some other land where we should be unknown a very good idea Duke but from my respect for you Signor Meric and from my daughter's love for Yannisi the brave and beautiful Signorini I shall dare to ask from you a favor but already I'm aware that we do not deserve it what is it sir that you take my Teto to keep for a few weeks until I can send away my men and arrange my affairs here it would be unpleasant for the child here and with you she will be happy I would like the sweet Signorini to buy nice dresses like those they themselves wear for my little girl and to teach her the good manners she could not gain as the Brigham's daughter Teto has the money to pay for everything but the kindness if you will let her stay in your society until I can claim her I am aware that I ask too much but the Signorina Patsy has said to my child that they will always be friends whatever might happen and as I know you to be generous I have dared to come to you with this request I only ask your friendship for my Teto who is innocent for myself after I have become a good man then perhaps you will forgive me too Uncle John looked thoughtful the old boy was grave and listened silently Patsy her arms still around the shrinking form of the child look pleadingly to uncle best eyes were moist and Louise smiled encouragingly well my dears the Duke is certainly not entitled to her friendship as he truly says against little Teto what do you advise let us keep her and dress her like the beautiful doll she is and love her cried Patsy she shall be our adopted cousin said Louise Teto is good stuff well be it seems to me uncle said the girl seriously that if the Duke really wishes to reform we should give him a helping hand the little girl has led a bad life because her father forced her to lure his victims and then procure the money for their ransoms but I am sure her nature is sweet and pure and she is so young that she will soon forget the evil thing she has learned so I vote with my cousins let us adopt Teto and care for her until her father can introduce her into a new and more proper life well argued Beth said uncle John approvingly I couldn't have put the case better myself what do you say Silas Watson that you are all quite right answered the old lawyer and the best part of the whole thing to me is the fact that this nest of brigands will be wiped out of existence and tower Mina will be here after safe for the tourist as old Elmhurst itself I wish I could say as much for the rest of Sicily uncle John extended his hand to the Duke who took it gratefully although with a shame faced expression that was perhaps natural under the circumstances look up dear said Patsy to the girl softly look up and kiss me you've been adopted Teto are you glad end of chapter 27 recording by Chelsea Baker